Pay for one item get completely different - much, much cheaper under same tracking information

[Simon-4]

Hi,

I never ever buy anything on the net unless it's paid through PayPal. I was never disappointed.

Here is what happened now: An advertising advised of 10 bicycles to be sold as a special promo for only US$29.99. I don't need a bicycle

but was keen to see what sells for that amount and being PayPal, I was pretty sure it must be genuine, otherwise, why do it? 

3 weeks later, I have sent the seller a message that I cannot see any movement on the tracking No. provided. 2 days later I received a polite reply repeating the tracking number and stating it actually already delivered on 29, June. 

Well, on 29 June, a tiny little envelope has indeed arrived, under my name, containing a simple (rubbish maximum $2 value) of plastic sunglasses which I naturally never ordered. Triggered, and luckily have kept the envelope, I noticed that the tracking No. on it is the very same one of the bicycle originally ordered. This to me looks like a scam: Collecting an amount 30 times more than what was actually sent, and hoping that the purchasing client will give up. And at all times they can prove that they actually have sent the item, which indeed was delivered. Then, if it rarely happens that customers do notice and complain, the money will be refunded by PayPal.  And then they can go on with their cheating of others with no disturbances. Yes, PayPal may cut them off as a legitimate seller, but they then re-register under yet another name. Without being prejudice or sound even a bit racist, may I add that the seller is from China !!!

Interesting, does this story sound familiar? has it happened to others? The only solution to this is simply - reduce or cut altogether any online shopping as well as realizing what we all know: If it's too good to be true - it's not true. Period !!!

[kernowlass · Accepted solution]

@Simon-4 

Chinese Web Sites or on Facebook easy to spot (once you know the below signs) so buyer beware.

1. No return address on the returns policy............thats because the site will look as if its in your country (where they despatch goods from) BUT they will ask for returns to go back to China (returns depot) at a shipping cost nearly always more than the item is worth.
2. No contact telephone number............if you click on contact the most you will get is webmail or an email address.
3. No company address information.
4. Great looking items at bargain prices that turn out to be tat.


How do I open a dispute with a seller when a purchase goes wrong?

You can open a dispute in the Resolution Centre of your PayPal account within 180 days of payment if:
•You don’t receive the item OR service
•You receive an item but it’s significantly different than the description on eBay or on the seller’s website

By opening a dispute, you can communicate directly with your seller to work out a problem transaction.

If you reach an agreement with the seller you can close the dispute. If you're still not happy with the result, you can escalate the dispute into a claim. Paypal will review the claim and decide on reimbursement.

These steps apply to Personal accounts. If you have a Business account, please log in to see the steps that apply to you.

To open a dispute:
1.Log in to your PayPal account.
2. Click on the transaction and use the resolve a problem option at the bottom of that details page.

Note:
•Generally buyers must wait at least 7 days from the date of payment to escalate a dispute for an item not received
•Where an item has not been received, please ensure you have given the seller enough time before opening a dispute

DO NOT CLOSE THE DISPUTE UNTIL YOU HAVE A CLEARED REFUND OR YOUR ITEM WHATEVER THE SELLER SAYS. ALSO DON'T FORGET TO ESCALATE THE DISPUTE TO A CLAIM WITHIN 20 DAYS IF THE SELLER DOES NOT REFUND.

If that does not work then if you funded your paypal payment via a card then contact your card issuer and see if they will do a chargeback for you.

Also make sure you have activated the below link in case you have to return the item to get a refund
https://www.paypal.com/us/smarthelp/article/FAQ3544

[1Badmom]

Me too